There’s something about waking up to a Bend sunrise that feels like an invitation to dive into the day. When the morning light streamed through wall-to-wall windows in our living room, it cast warm hues of orange and pink across the walls, mirroring the colors of the art hanging in the condo where we were lucky to have a recent stay. Aerie by AvantStay at Discovery Corner, a concept in overnight accommodations for the Discovery West neighborhood, was our editorial office for a couple of days and served as a working staycation. A long table with plenty of seating gave the four of us a place to gather. The front balcony became our favorite spot for morning coffee and watching neighbors in the plaza below starting their days with dog walks and morning phone calls. Meanwhile, the back deck awaited us for evenings worth savoring.
An Art-filled Community Space for Year-Round Gathering
We were perched above Discovery Corner, the lively plaza and retail center that debuted in October 2024. It serves as an open space rich with art, thoughtful design and shops. The plaza’s circular shape naturally encourages gatherings. After a day’s work, we were drawn to the warm glow from a 600-pound steel firepit sculpture anchoring its center and created by Oregon artist Jenny Ellsworth. It was easy to envision music and conversation taking place there all year round. After warming up by the fire, we started what would be a tour of art throughout the neighborhood. Discovery Corner is adorned by “Mechanical Waves,” a striking mosaic by Bend artist Rochelle Rose-Schueler. Inspired by sound waves and tectonic energy, its flowing design led us along the plaza’s curves, prompting reflection on the forces that have shaped both nature and our community. We felt a deep sense of pride in Bend’s enduring connection to its surrounding landscape—a place where art, science and shared moments come together.
Steps away from the front door of our condo, new businesses like Sparrow Mercado and Put A Cork In It were preparing to open. They provide local bites and sips to fuel adventures, exploring the neighborhood and nearby hikes or bike rides at Phil’s Trail.
Wandering the new Discovery West Labrinyth
For an afternoon break from writing, we wandered the streets of Discovery West, following the bronze medallions along Discovery Walk, each honoring women who have made remarkable contributions throughout history. Standing beside the plaque of Ann Bancroft—the first woman to journey to both the Arctic and Antarctica—I felt a spark of inspiration from her adventurous spirit. Though our tour was more of a neighborhood education than a polar expedition, I shared my own thrilling sense of exploration.
We wove through streets and paths, and soon came upon the newest addition to Discovery West’s commitment to the arts: Discovery West Labyrinth. In partnership with Bend Park and Recreation District, the serene spot is a maze to wander and connect with nature. Designers Lea Good-Harris and Marilyn Larson of Creative Labyrinths created this space for quiet contemplation, with additional funding provided by the Bend Sustainability Fund. Collaborative projects like this welcome the entire community.
The neighborhood’s varied architecture added another layer of fascination to our walk—with examples from Craftsman and farmhouse-style homes, to mid-century and contemporary styles. It’s the kind of place where we felt we could walk for hours (and we did), admiring the art of everyday living. The neighborhood trail network forms a 7-mile loop that connects Discovery Park with the surrounding forested hills.
A Neighborhood Surrounded by Nature and Nearby Restaurants
Our stay with Aerie at Discovery Corner certainly spoiled us with modern luxury, yet the surrounding natural environment reminded us to enjoy the simplest moments. After full workdays and refreshing breaks along the paths outside our front door, we especially appreciated the choice of restaurants close by. At NorthWest Crossing, less than a mile away, we were tempted by fine dining at Rancher Butcher Chef, casual counter service from The Grove Market Hall or Poke Row, and restaurants such as Washington Dining + Cocktails, La Rosa and Mountain Burger. We opted to eat in, wanting to savor our meals in the comfort of our condo’s lovely deck.
The day’s adventures ended with a soak under the stars, my favorite way to take in Central Oregon’s dark sky. With the heat cranked up, the hot tub became our evening sanctuary. When the sun fell and made room for the night sky, it lit up with a different kind of mosaic—a blanket of constellations. Perhaps a cosmic nudge that even in calm moments, anything is possible.
A Distinctly Bend Experience
Discovery Corner is an invitation to out-of-towners, neighborhood residents and Central Oregon locals alike to enjoy community, nature and a lifestyle of connectedness. Aerie offers a one-of-a-kind experience for overnight stays in northwest Bend as the neighborhoods are absent of short-stay vacation rentals. With 20 rental units, you can plan a staycation, work and play like we did, or host friends and family and truly be part of the neighborhood, even if only for a short time.
Our “workdays” ended with a sunrise that seemed to thank us for taking the time to explore Discovery West and Discovery Corner. It was a reminder that we don’t have to go far to be wowed. All we needed to do was step outside, soak in what surrounded us and stay curious—something worth admiring kept reveal itself.
Head over to Discovery West to explore more of the community, explore its art and learn more about the Women of Discovery. See Aerie by AvantStay at Discovery Corner to explore available short-term stays.
